CITY have kick-started their summer recruitment drive after completing the signing of defender Ben Richards-Everton.

The 6ft 5ins centre-back has signed a two-year deal, which will keep him at the Northern Commercials Stadium until at least the end of the 2020/21 campaign.

Richards-Everton, who has spent the last two seasons with Accrington Stanley and helped them earn promotion to Sky Bet League One last year, arrives as manager Gary Bowyer’s first signing since himself penning a two-term contract with the Bantams.

The former Dunfermline player said: “I am absolutely delighted to be here.

"When I first found out about the interest, I spoke to Gary (Bowyer) and was keen to come and sign for such a fantastic club.

“I played against Bradford last season, for Accrington, and the stature of the club was clear to see.

"It shouldn’t be in this position, going into League Two, but the manger will get the right players in and we will look to move straight back up.

“We had a great changing room at Accrington in the season we got promoted from League Two. It is something you need.

“I like to be dominant on the field and win every game I play in. I will do everything I can for this club.

“I am really looking forward to playing in front of a huge crowd here when I get the opportunity to.

"I saw it on New Year’s Day and the atmosphere was fantastic. The supporters here are a real credit to Bradford City.”

Bowyer added: “Ben is a good character and I was very impressed when I met him.

“He will give us some size in our back four, he is quick and can also operate at left-back.

“Ben knows how to get out of League Two and we need that kind of mentality in our dressing room.

“He had attracted attention from other clubs but Ben expressed a desire to come and play here.

“Ben was excited by the number of season tickets we have sold and is a player who will thrive in great atmospheres.”

Richards-Everton will officially become a Bradford City player on July 1 - when his contract with Accrington expires. The agreement is subject to standard EFL and FA clearances.